Redbone Coonhound Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you considering getting a Redbone Coonhound as a pet? If so, you’re in for a loyal and loving companion. Originally bred for hunting raccoons and other game, these dogs have a strong prey drive and require regular exercise and stimulation. However, they are also known for their affectionate and gentle nature towards their families. This breed is an excellent choice for an active household that is willing to provide plenty of exercise and training for their furry friend. In this guide, we’ll explore the characteristics, temperament, and care requirements of the Redbone Coonhound to help you decide if this breed is right for you.

Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: United States
Average Size:53-69 cm
Average Weight:23-32 kg
Average Life Span: 11-12 years
Grooming Requirements: Low
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Redbone Coonhound is a breed of dog that originated in the United States. It is a hunting dog that was bred to track and tree raccoons, as well as other small game. The breed is known for its distinctive red coat, which is where it gets its name.

The history of the Redbone Coonhound can be traced back to the late 18th century, when European settlers began to bring their hunting dogs to the United States. These dogs were bred with local dogs, resulting in a variety of new breeds. The Redbone Coonhound is believed to have been developed from a mix of Bloodhounds, Foxhounds, and other breeds.

The breed was first recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1902, and later by the American Kennel Club in 2009. Today, the Redbone Coonhound is still primarily used as a hunting dog, but it is also a popular companion animal. The breed is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature.

One of the most famous Redbone Coonhounds was a dog named Old Dan, who was featured in the novel “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls. The book tells the story of a young boy and his two Redbone Coonhounds, Old Dan and Little Ann, and their adventures in the Ozark Mountains. The book has become a classic of children’s literature and has helped to popularize the breed.

In addition to their hunting abilities, Redbone Coonhounds have also been used in search and rescue operations. Their keen sense of smell and ability to track scents over long distances make them well-suited for this type of work. The breed has also been used in law enforcement, particularly in the detection of drugs and explosives.

Despite their popularity, Redbone Coonhounds are still a relatively rare breed. They require a lot of exercise and attention, and are not well-suited for apartment living. They are also prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and ear infections. However, for those who are willing to put in the time and effort, the Redbone Coonhound can make a wonderful companion and hunting partner.

Size and Breed Category

The Redbone Coonhound is a medium to large-sized breed of dog that is known for its striking red coat. They typically weigh between 20-32 kg and stand at a height of 53-69 cm at the shoulder. Their muscular build and athletic physique make them well-suited for hunting and tracking activities. The breed’s coat is short and smooth, with a glossy appearance that is easy to maintain. Redbone Coonhounds have a distinctive bark that is loud and deep, which is why they are often used as hunting dogs. They are also known for their keen sense of smell, which makes them excellent at tracking scents.

The Redbone Coonhound is classified as a hound breed, which means they were originally bred for hunting purposes. They are known for their tenacity and determination when it comes to tracking prey, which makes them a popular choice for hunters. Despite their hunting instincts, Redbone Coonhounds are also known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, and they thrive on human companionship. This breed is also known for its intelligence and trainability, which makes them a great choice for families who are looking for an active and intelligent companion. Overall, the Redbone Coonhound is a versatile breed that is well-suited for a variety of activities, from hunting to family life.

Fur Length and Colour

The Fur Length and Colour of the Redbone Coonhound is a defining characteristic of this breed. Their coat is short and dense, providing protection from the elements while hunting. The fur is smooth to the touch and lies close to the body, giving the Redbone Coonhound a sleek appearance. The fur is typically a rich, deep red color, which is where the breed gets its name. The red color can vary in shade, from a bright copper to a darker mahogany. Some Redbone Coonhounds may have small patches of white on their chest and feet, but this is not common. Overall, the fur of the Redbone Coonhound is a beautiful and practical feature of the breed.

The Redbone Coonhound’s fur is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also serves a functional purpose. The short length of the fur allows for easy maintenance, as it does not require frequent grooming. Additionally, the dense fur provides insulation, keeping the Redbone Coonhound warm in colder temperatures. The red color of the fur is also beneficial for hunting, as it allows the dog to blend in with the surrounding foliage. This makes it easier for the Redbone Coonhound to track prey without being detected. Overall, the fur length and color of the Redbone Coonhound is an important aspect of the breed’s appearance and hunting abilities.

Termperament and Trainability

Redbone Coonhounds are known for their friendly and outgoing temperament. They are highly sociable dogs that love to be around people and other animals. They are also very loyal and affectionate towards their owners, making them great family pets. However, they can be quite stubborn at times and require a firm and consistent hand in training. They are intelligent dogs that are quick to learn, but they can also be easily distracted by their strong hunting instincts. Therefore, it is important to start training them from a young age and to use positive reinforcement techniques to keep them engaged and motivated. Overall, Redbone Coonhounds are great companions for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to train them properly.

When it comes to trainability, Redbone Coonhounds are known for their high energy levels and strong hunting instincts. They were originally bred for hunting raccoons and other small game, so they have a natural instinct to chase and track prey. This can make them difficult to train at times, as they can become easily distracted by their surroundings. However, with patience and consistency, they can be trained to follow commands and behave appropriately in different situations. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, and they enjoy learning new things. Overall, Redbone Coonhounds are trainable dogs that require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Known Health Conditions

Redbone Coonhounds are a breed of dog that are known to be prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that Redbone Coonhounds face is hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, causing the bones to rub against each other and leading to pain and discomfort. Redbone Coonhounds with hip dysplasia may experience difficulty walking or running, and may also develop arthritis as they age. To prevent hip dysplasia, it is important to ensure that Redbone Coonhounds are not over-exercised as puppies and that they maintain a healthy weight throughout their lives.

Another health condition that Redbone Coonhounds are prone to is ear infections. Due to their long, floppy ears, Redbone Coonhounds are more susceptible to developing ear infections than other breeds. These infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, bacteria, and yeast. Symptoms of an ear infection in a Redbone Coonhound may include shaking of the head, scratching at the ears, and a foul odor coming from the ears. To prevent ear infections, it is important to clean a Redbone Coonhound’s ears regularly and to seek veterinary treatment if any signs of infection are present.

Openness to Strangers

Redbone Coonhounds are known for their friendly and outgoing nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is always eager to meet new people and make new friends. This trait makes them excellent family pets as they are always ready to welcome guests into the home with wagging tails and happy barks. Redbone Coonhounds are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts towards their owners, which makes them great watchdogs. However, their friendly nature towards strangers means that they are not the best guard dogs as they are more likely to greet intruders with a wagging tail than with aggression.

Redbone Coonhounds are a breed that thrives on human interaction and attention. They are not the type of dog that can be left alone for long periods of time as they can become anxious and destructive. This breed is happiest when they are surrounded by people and other animals, and they are known to get along well with children and other pets. Redbone Coonhounds are also highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement methods. They are eager to please their owners and are always willing to learn new tricks and commands. Overall, the Redbone Coonhound’s openness to strangers and friendly nature make them a great addition to any household that is looking for a loyal and affectionate companion.

Playfulness Level

The Redbone Coonhound is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep their owners entertained for hours on end. Whether it’s playing fetch, chasing after a ball, or simply running around in the backyard, these dogs are always up for a good time. They are also very social animals and enjoy spending time with their owners and other dogs. This makes them a great choice for families with children or other pets.

One of the things that makes the Redbone Coonhound so playful is their natural curiosity. They are always exploring their surroundings and looking for new things to discover. This can sometimes get them into trouble, as they may wander off in search of adventure. However, with proper training and supervision, they can be taught to channel their curiosity in a positive way. Overall, the Redbone Coonhound is a fun-loving and playful breed that is sure to bring joy and laughter to any household.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Redbone Coonhounds are a highly energetic and playful breed, making them a great choice for families with children who have an active lifestyle. They are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, which makes them excellent companions for children. Redbone Coonhounds are also highly intelligent and easy to train, which is a bonus for families with young children who may want to participate in training activities. However, due to their high energy levels, they require regular exercise and playtime to keep them happy and healthy.

Exercise Needs

Redbone Coonhounds are a highly active breed that require plenty of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium-sized breed, they need at least an hour of exercise every day, which can be achieved through a combination of walks, runs, and playtime. These dogs have a strong hunting instinct and love to explore their surroundings, so it’s important to keep them on a leash or in a secure, fenced area to prevent them from running off. In addition to physical exercise, Redbone Coonhounds also benefit from mental stimulation, such as training sessions or puzzle toys, to keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom.

Due to their high energy levels, Redbone Coonhounds are best suited for active owners who can provide them with the exercise and attention they need. They thrive in homes with large yards or access to outdoor spaces where they can run and play, but can also adapt to apartment living as long as they receive enough exercise. It’s important to note that these dogs can be prone to weight gain if they don’t get enough exercise, so owners should monitor their diet and ensure they are getting the appropriate amount of food for their activity level. Overall, Redbone Coonhounds are a lively and athletic breed that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Redbone Coonhounds have a reputation for being friendly and sociable with other pets. They are known to get along well with cats and other dogs, as long as they are properly socialized from a young age. However, it is important to note that every dog is unique and may have different tendencies when it comes to interacting with other animals. It is always recommended to supervise any interactions between pets and to introduce them slowly and carefully.

Housing Requirements

Redbone Coonhounds require a spacious and secure living environment that allows them to move around freely. They are an active breed that requires daily exercise, so a large yard or access to a nearby park is essential. The yard should be securely fenced to prevent the Redbone Coonhound from wandering off, as they have a strong hunting instinct and may chase after small animals. Additionally, the fence should be high enough to prevent the Redbone Coonhound from jumping over it. The living space should also be well-ventilated and temperature-controlled, as Redbone Coonhounds are sensitive to extreme temperatures. A comfortable bed or crate should be provided for the Redbone Coonhound to rest in when they are not exercising.

Redbone Coonhounds require a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. They are prone to obesity, so their food intake should be monitored and controlled. A diet that is high in protein and low in fat is recommended for Redbone Coonhounds. Fresh water should be available at all times, and their water bowl should be cleaned regularly. Redbone Coonhounds also require regular grooming to maintain their coat’s health and shine. Brushing their coat once a week is recommended to remove any loose hair and prevent matting. Additionally, their ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and their nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth.

Summary

Redbone Coonhounds have a high energy level and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, but can be independent and stubborn at times. They have a strong hunting instinct and may chase small animals, so they need to be trained and socialized from a young age. Overall, they can make great pets for active and experienced owners who are willing to provide them with the attention and training they need.

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